Citroën C2 VTS (04-09) - Review

Review by David Ross on
The VTS is the hot hatch version in the C2 range and, unlike the limited edition GT model, has genuine performance from its 125bhp petrol engine with a 0-62mph time of 8.3 seconds. It's also available with a punchy diesel that's cheap to tax and will return 64mpg. The VTS handles well thanks to the C2's lightweight body plus there's minimal body roll in corners. Unfortunately the light steering lacks feel and detracts somewhat from the driving enjoyment while the vague gearbox is another disappointment. But affordable prices and low running costs make the VTS a good value junior hot hatch.
3 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£10,940 - £14,145

Used price range:

£2,012 - £8,094

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Neat handling, lively petrol engine with strong performance, also available with a diesel

Cramped in the back, some poor interior plastics, over-assisted steering

The VTS is the hot hatch version in the C2 range and, unlike the limited edition GT model, has genuine performance from its 125bhp petrol engine with a 0-62mph time of 8.3 seconds. It's also available with a punchy diesel that's cheap to tax and will return 64mpg. The VTS handles well thanks to the C2's lightweight body plus there's minimal body roll in corners. Unfortunately the light steering lacks feel and detracts somewhat from the driving enjoyment while the vague gearbox is another disappointment. But affordable prices and low running costs make the VTS a good value junior hot hatch.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    3.5 out of 5

    "The VTS was launched with just one engine - a spirited 1.6-litre petrol with 125bhp that sprints..."

  • Handling

    3.5 out of 5

    "The VTS has uprated suspension and a lower ride height than the standard C2 plus the steering has..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    2.5 out of 5

    "The C2 is really only suitable for two people for the majority of journeys - the two back seats are..."

  • Practicality

    2.5 out of 5

    "Boot space is extremely limited, especially with the rear seats slid back for maximum legroom but..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "The VTS comes well equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, front foglights, chrome tailpipe, rear..."

  • Behind the wheel

    3 out of 5

    "Forward visibility is good but small wing mirrors and a limited rear screen mean that rear..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    4.5 out of 5

    "Amazingly for a hot hatch, the insurance rating is group 8, which is very low considering the..."

  • Green credentials

    4 out of 5

    "The VTS may be a hot hatch but it performs fairly well on the eco-front - due mainly to the fact..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    3.5 out of 5

    "The C2 scored a reasonable four stars in the official Euro NCAP crash tests, which was a high score..."

  • Reliability

    2.5 out of 5

    "Nothing major reported by owners, although the engine management system has caused some problems."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    4 out of 5

    "Citroën is known for its generous cashback and free insurance offers, so you'll never have to pay..."

  • Buying used

    3 out of 5

    "There are a decent number of good VTS models around so you can afford to be choosy. The diesel is..."

  • Selling

    3 out of 5

    "The VTS will be a fairly popular car on the used market, particularly with younger buyers after..."

Gallery

  • Interior Citroën C2 VTS (04-09)
  • Exterior Citroën C2 VTS (04-09)
  • Exterior Citroën C2 VTS (04-09)
  • Exterior Citroën C2 VTS (04-09)

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Owners' reviews